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| Gateway Of India |
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History
The city’s long association with the British is reflected in the old world charm of its buildings made in the Indo-Saracen style. With its well-known landmark- the Gateway of India is located at Apollo Bunder overlooking the harbour. The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911.
Mumbai's most famous monument, this is the starting point for most tourists who would love to explore the city. Today the Gateway of India stands as a symbol of perfect Indo-saracenic style of architecture and draws hordes of local tourists and citizens. It is one of the finest examples of colonial architectural heritage in India.
Yellow kharodi basalt and reinforced concrete were used in the construction of the building. The huge arch of the Gateway of India is 26 metres in height. The total estimated cost to construct of the gateway came to Rs 21, 0000 and all was financed by the government. Finally, the construction of the gateway was completed in 1924 AD and it was opened on December 4, 1924 AD by the Viceroy, Earl of Reading.
This historical monument built during the British rule faces the vast Arabian Sea and is flanked by Marine Drive, a road running parallel to the sea. The majestic monument is a must-visit at night as one can witness its pristine glory against the backdrop of the sea.
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Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Mumbai is the months between September and April as the rains have finished playing havoc with the city’s drainage system and the humidity levels are at their lowest.
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Trivia
During the British Raj, the Gateway to India served as a symbolic significance of the power of British rule in India to arriving Englishmen, as this is where they first stepped ashore on arrival to Bombay by sea.
Ironically, when the British rule came to an end, the ship carrying the last British troops, the First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry, sailed out from Indian shores from the Gateway of India on 28th February 1948.
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Timing
Anytime is a good time to see the Gateway of India.
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Travel Tools
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